Cyberbullying

Cyber Bullying occurs when people send or post mean or threatening text or pictures on the Internet.

Examples

  • A kid could post stories about another kid online. They could show the website to all of their friends. When the victim goes back to school, he/she gets teased about something they don’t know about.

  • If a friend had your password, and you got into a fight, they could send mean emails to everyone in your address book. When your friends or family open the email, they would think that it came from you! They could feel very hurt and upset.

Possible warning signs of children being bullied or bullying other children

  • Complaining that other children or a group of children do not like them.

  • Preoccupation with friendship concerns.

  • Poor self-esteem. Feeling they are not as good as others.

  • Not wanting to go to school or other activities.

  • Spending a great deal of time on the computer.

  • Being secretive about online activities.

Dealing with Cyberbullying

  • Preserve evidence – this is crucial for identifying the bully and making a case.

  • Attempt to enlist assistance from the service provider.

  • If able to identify the bully, contact him or her and/or parents.

  • Use available blocking technology (i.e., block the user on IM, email and chat.)

  • In serious cases, seek assistance from the police (i.e., threats of physical harm, unrelenting or unable to stop.)

How to avoid Viruses / Trojans / Ad-Ware

  • Internet Explorer uses Active-X controls for easy software installation – not safe. Use Web Browser Alternatives: Firefox, Opera, Safari, Chrome

  • Use Virus Software: Symantec, McAffee, free microsoft security essentials.

  • Regularly  update windows (weekly). Windows 8 comes with its own antivirus defender.

  • Don’t open email attachments unless you know for certain what they are.